Past Project
Hydrotherapy Pool for Children's Hospital
Client Overview
Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust is a key provider of children's healthcare across the UK. The Ryegate Children’s Centre is dedicated to supporting children with disabilities, offering crucial rehabilitation and therapeutic services. The update of this hydrotherapy pool was a collaborative project with The Children’s Hospital Charity and Artfelt.
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The Challenge: Updating a 50-Year-Old Facility for a New Generation
The hydrotherapy pool at Ryegate Children’s Centre, part of Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, had served generations, but after 50 years, it was time for a modern replacement. The goal was more than just a new pool. The team envisioned a vibrant, therapeutic space where disabled children could build strength, confidence, and vital motor skills in a welcoming, engaging environment.
However, designing and delivering creative visuals for a high-humidity space like a hydrotherapy pool presents its own set of challenges:
- Materials needed to withstand constant moisture and fluctuating temperatures
- Adhesion had to be reliable on specially treated walls
- Graphics needed to be both engaging for children and durable
The Solution: Expert Print & Vinyl Consultation
Signs Express (Sheffield) was brought into the project by Cat Powell, Artfelt Manager at The Children’s Hospital Charity, to provide expert guidance on suitable vinyl materials and print techniques for the unique environment.
Our approach included:
- Extensive testing of different vinyl options to find the right match for durability and visual impact
- Advising on the use of specialist wall paint to ensure proper adhesion of vinyl in humid conditions
- Collaborating with hospital staff, artists, and project leaders to ensure the final look was both functional and uplifting
Ultimately, over 40 metres of high-tack, full-colour printed vinyl was installed across the interior walls, providing a long-lasting, bright, and cheerful finish suited to young patients.
The Result: A Joyful Space That Supports Healing
The transformation of the hydrotherapy pool environment has made a huge impact. Key features of the new space include:
- A contemporary sunken bathing area, complete with underwater lighting and a new hoist system
- Beautiful, colourful wall graphics that stimulate and comfort young patients
- Materials that are purposefully selected to withstand the challenging conditions of the pool area
The new facility was officially opened by Paralympic gold medallist Oliver Hynd, highlighting its importance and celebration within the community.
Testimonials
“Thank you so much for all your help in making the hydrotherapy pool project a great success. Your support played a key part in helping us to transform the pool and we are extremely grateful for this.” - Cat Powell, Artfelt Manager, The Children’s Hospital Charity
“The new pool has given us a bright, fresh, fun environment which will transform hydrotherapy for all involved.” - Jenny Featherstone, Team Leader for Community Physiotherapy & Occupational Therapy, Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust
“It has been a joy to be part of this project. We worked closely with artists and hospital staff to ensure the right decisions were made. The end result is a wonderful environment for the children.” - Carol Morris, Owner, Signs Express (Sheffield)
To learn more about the charity behind the project, visit Sheffield Children's Hospital Charity
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